By Kwame Bediako
Asante Kotoko edged Kwara United 4-3 in a thrilling CAF Confederation Cup first-leg clash at Accra Sports Stadium on Sunday, September 21, 2025. Both teams delivered an intense, attacking display that kept fans on the edge of their seats throughout the match. Kotoko’s win gives them a slender advantage ahead of the second leg in Nigeria next week.
The match started with high energy as Kotoko took the lead in the 18th minute through Emmanuel Antwi. However, Kwara United responded strongly, with their key player Aule Johnmark leveling the score in the 34th minute after persistent pressure.
Just before halftime, Albert Amoah restored Kotoko’s advantage only for Johnmark to strike again immediately, making it 2-2 at the break.
In the second half, Kotoko came out determined to secure victory. Center-back Joseph Ablorh scored swiftly in the 47th minute to put the Porcupine Warriors ahead 3-2.
Their momentum continued, culminating in a penalty won by Kotoko and converted by man of the match Albert Amoah in the 71st minute, extending their lead to 4-2. Kwara United refused to give up and kept fighting to close the gap.
Their efforts paid off when a defensive error by Kotoko allowed Shola to score, narrowing the deficit to 4-3. The visitors showed great resilience but could not find an equalizer before the final whistle.
Kotoko will now travel to Nigeria for the decisive second leg, aiming to build on their one-goal lead and secure a place in the next round of the CAF Confederation Cup.
